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John Pook

1966 Austin Countryman restorationJohn has just started to restore this Austin Countryman, which has been sat for 22 years! So far he has been busy stripping it down and cutting out the rot ready for the shell to be sent away for shot blasting.

June 2015Johns tells us that after shot blasting a few more panels were required over and above what he had anticipated. There has been a significant amount of repair required to the rear door step and the bottom of the rear quarters, however the shell has faired surprisingly well, the roof, rear quarters, inner wings, boot floor and tow board are all sound. Floor is currently in and tacked. Both rear doors have been fitted into the aperture. John has also had to replace the window trim panels and channels. John says, "I have sourced Unipart brake systems and have a sent a large box of components to be shot blasted and powder coated. I am now just about to start work on the inner/outer A-Panels".

August 2015John tells us that both doors have now been fitted and are operational. He says "Achieving the perfect gap was a struggle!! But am now satisfied with the end result. The next step is to fit the front panel and wings which no doubt will present further challenges in terms of lining things up." Unfortunately John's progress has been hampered by an incident at the workshop involving a drunk driver crashing into the front doors, however he is hoping to get started again soon.

December 2015John says "I Have spent a significant amount of time attempting to get the perfect panel gaps prior to welding. The wood kit has arrived and has been fitted accordingly, trimming and sanding as required for perfect fit. The Engine bay is currently being primed in preparation for the colour in due course. All exterior components have been trial fitted prior to painting." John has also been busy with the underside of the car. Firstly a new floor has been fitted, sealed and stone chipped. Then the underside has been painted and the rear subframe and components have all been connected prior to putting the vehicle back on its wheels. John is now taking a well earned break whilst the engine is still at the machine shop and hopes to start work on his Countryman again in the New Year.

John has promised to send us updates as the restoration progresses, so watch this space!